If we can still do this at 81…

We say “still,” most of us could barely do this now.

Paddy Conaghan turns 81 today, but is not letting birthday celebrations delay his plan to swim at every beach and every pier on every coastline in Ireland in order to raise funds for Gemma’s Legacy of Hope, a counselling service in his native Donegal.

Today will see the octogenarian dunk himself into the icy cold waters at seven different locations around Cork between 9am and 4pm.

Paddy’s itinerary includes:

• Youghal 9am
• Ballycotton Pier 10.30
• Ballinamona beach 12.00
• Ardnahinch, Shanagarry 1pm
• Garryvoe beach 2pm
• Ballywilling beach 3pm
• Ballycrenane beach 4pm

Ballycotton Instagram page has said: “Do please come along and swim with Paddy or just turn up to show your support and/or make a small donation please. every small donation makes a huge difference.” The GoFundMe link can be found here.

The description reads: “Covid has had an impact on all of us, and we will not see the true effect it has had for a number of years yet. More than ever, mental health needs to be promoted and this service greatly needs our help to continue its incredible work.”

At the time of writing, Paddy has raised over €58,000.